Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Department

Genetic Counseling

First Advisor

Shandrea Foster

Abstract

When applying to genetic counseling graduate programs (GCGPs), past research has demonstrated that students prefer websites that are updated and easy to navigate. Program websites contribute to students’ first impressions of the program and serve as an important source of information, but there is limited research on the role of social media and other online content during the application process. This study aimed to identify the importance of online platforms and helpfulness of specific content for students applying to GCGPs. An electronic survey was distributed to current students and recent graduates of accredited genetic counseling programs, and 148 responses were analyzed. Descriptive statistical analysis identified platform importance and helpfulness of platform content. A paired samples t-test compared participants that utilized GCGP social media and websites during their application process. Themes of free responses were generated using a grounded theory approach. The average importance score was highest for websites followed by other online content and then social media. The platforms each had different content selected as most helpful with admission requirements as most helpful on websites, application dates as most helpful on social media, and clinical rotation experiences as most helpful on other online platforms. Analysis indicated that participants rated websites significantly more important (p < .001) compared to social media. Participants rated content about faculty (p < .001), clinical rotations (p < .001), location (p < .001), student backgrounds (p = 0.021), and student research (p < .001) as significantly more helpful on websites compared to social media. Thematic analysis  revealed websites served as a primary source of information and provided important logistical and program-specific details. Additionally, participants conveyed mixed satisfaction with website content. Social media provided insight into student lives and program culture but was not essential in decision-making, and there was a lack of consensus on current social media activity perceptions. Aligning content with student preferences across online platforms may allow GCGPs to more effectively support prospective students during the application process.

Rights

© 2026, Anna Cathryn Girten

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